Feds release cost estimates for Missouri health plans

JEFFERSON CITY – The federal government is providing a glimpse of what Missouri residents could pay for health insurance when enrollment opens next week for a new online marketplace.

Estimates released by the Department of Health and Human Services show a family of four with a $50,000 income could face average monthly premiums of $798 for a benchmark policy known as the "second-lowest-cost silver plan." But that cost could decline to $282 a month after federal subsidies.

A similar plan for a 27-year-old individual earning $25,000 could carry an average monthly premium of $220, which could be reduced to $145 with subsidies.

Missouri is one of 36 states that are letting the federal government run their health insurance exchanges. Federal figures show Missourians could have fewer policy choices than residents in most states.